Horace Mann Middle School in Neenah is one of 250 schools nationwide honored as with a National Healthy Schools Award by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

Horace Mann was recognized at the bronze level. Staff from Horace Mann will receive the award at the Healthier Generation Leaders’ Summit in October in Washington, D.C. Horace Mann was one of three Wisconsin schools to receive the award with schools in the Howard-Suamico and Oregon district also earning the honor.

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation provides schools with guidelines for implementing a healthy school environment. Through an assessment tool and a customized action plan, the framework helps schools work towards a National Healthy Schools Award. To earn the award, schools must demonstrate implementation of best practices in six different areas: School Health and Safety Policies and Environment, Health Education, Physical Education and Other Physical Activity Programs, Nutrition Services, Health Promotion for Staff and Family and Community Involvement.

Horace Mann has been active in the “Play 60” program, holding wellness activities for its students on each of its half days. The award also recognized the District’s Wellness Education curriculum and Wellness program. Horace Mann’s food service from Chartwell’s was commended for its commitment to adding healthier foods to the breakfast and lunch menu and the food service employees’ participation in regular training to maintain a high quality of service and food safety. The staff’s involvement in the District’s staff wellness programs was also a key factor in the award.

“The Horace Mann staff has worked tirelessly along with Chartwell’s to promote an environment of health and wellness,” said Neenah superintendent Dr. Mary Pfeiffer. “This award is a validation of their efforts and we are incredibly proud of the programs they have put in place.”

Horace Mann serves only sixth grade students and had an enrollment of 492 students in 2014-15.

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